Date of Award

2011

Document Type

Master Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Engineering (Research)

Department

Civil, Structural, & Environmental Engineering

First Advisor

John P. Murphy

Abstract

Brownfield sites are a common feature of the urban landscape, have significant development potential and when remediated are the catalysts for urban regeneration. However, site specific information regarding geotechnical and environmental aspects of the site, including regulatory issues are needed in terms of bringing the land back into beneficial use. This research project discusses current Irish practice and regulation in respect of brownfield development. A comparison is made between Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the European Union in this regard. A review of all available literature indicates a number of shortcomings in respect of the geotechnical, environmental and regulatory aspects of brownfield development in Ireland. Data was collected and collated as part of a questionnaire. The data gathered was then validated via focused interviews with stakeholders involved in the brownfield development process in Ireland. From the evidence collected, it is apparent that stakeholders experience ongoing difficulties including the lack of regulation and difficulty in accessing knowledge and guidelines in respect of all aspects of brownfield development. This has led to an ad-hoc approach to the development of brownfield sites in Ireland. It is clear that a coherent body of regulation and good practice guidelines, including a checklist, are required for the development of brownfield sites in Ireland. These good practice guidelines, including a checklist, would facilitate considered and well understood common approaches between all stakeholders involved in the brownfield development process. In so doing it would promote the regeneration of brownfield areas, thereby contributing significantly to improving the sustainability of an area. The checklist and good practice guidelines developed as part of this study, provide a framework to assist in the assessment, planning, management and development of brownfield sites in Ireland.

Comments

Appendices have been removed from this thesis due to copyright and personal data information.

Access Level

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

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